Geddy Lee of Rush has often been regarded as a musical innovator, pushing the boundaries of bass playing and captivating audiences with his intricate and dynamic approach. His bass work, which often resembled the lead guitar style, has set a high bar, even eclipsing legends like John Entwistle and Les Claypool. Despite his prowess, Lee has openly expressed his admiration for Jeff Berlin, considering him the best bassist currently active.
Understanding the bass guitar goes beyond just playing complex notes or sticking to chord roots—it’s about how well a bassist locks in with the drummer. Lee, known for his technical brilliance, found a perfect match in Neil Peart, whose precision and skill often inspired Lee to match his drumming note-for-note. Their collaboration led to iconic pieces like ‘YYZ,’ showcasing their unique synergy.
In the broader jazz and fusion landscape, Lee was aware of the significant impact of players like Jaco Pastorius and Charles Mingus. Among them, Jeff Berlin stood out by mastering and applying the techniques of these jazz giants in his own playing. Berlin’s exceptional work was highlighted in collaborations with prominent figures such as Yes drummer Bill Bruford and guitarist Allan Holdsworth, whose unconventional style left a lasting impression on the music world.
While Lee recognized his own style and vision for albums like Roll the Bones, he acknowledged that matching Berlin’s technical skills was beyond reach. Lee praised Berlin’s talent, stating, “As far as I’m concerned, Jeff Berlin is the best bass player on the planet—an incredible talent.”
Despite not being able to match Berlin’s raw technical abilities, Lee made his mark with the intensity and passion he brought to his performances. Listening to Rush’s classic tracks, it’s easy to mistake Lee’s aggressive playing for the work of a lead guitarist, such is the power and fervor he injected into his bass lines.
Though Lee’s approach was rooted in the progressive rock tradition, his style often veered towards punk rock’s raw energy. Regardless of the genre, Lee’s commitment to playing with full intensity was evident in every performance, ensuring that even if his style differed from Berlin’s, his contributions remained a thrilling and memorable part of the musical landscape.
